New to MFT and need lens advice

CJackJr wrote:

Hi all,

I've been an Olympus 43 owner for many years (see my gear list) and a member of the Olympus SLR forum (although I haven't posted for a while). I recently purchased a Panasonic GX7 with a Lumix G Vario 12-32 lens. I'm quite happy with it and now MUST add to my lens collection. Being new to MFT I have a few questions:

1. Is it worth getting a 43-MFT adapter to use my Oly FT lenses on the GX7? If so, any recommendations?

Depends on which lenses. Certain 4/3 lenses are CDAF capable--primarily the standard grade ones--but the rest really need a PDAF Oly to focus well, and will be poor on a GX7.

1. Is there a benefit to sticking with Panasonic MFT glass on a Panasonic camera or do Oly (and other manufacturers) lenses work just fine?

All are fully interchangeable. OIS Oly lenses are rare so IBIS is needed to stabilize them (don't know if your camera has it). Everything else should work normally regardless of brand.

1. Even though I have the 12-32, I'm considering the 12-60 as my "walk-around" lens. (I have used the Oly 12-60 on my 43 gear and really liked its range.) Any thoughts on which 12-60?

Both have their fans. I'd opt for the faster PL one, myself. I have the Oly 12-40 and 12-100, both are excellent too, and constant-aperture.

1. Lastly, I'd like something longer than the 12-60 to use occasionally for wildlife and candid photos of my grandkids playing. I've been looking at the Lumix 45-175. Any thoughts on that lens or anything else I should consider that is in that general price range?

So many choices. I'd be tempted by the 50-200, which looks excellent.

I'll really appreciate any and all responses to even just one of my questions. I know from past experience that members of these forums have a wealth of valuable information and are more than willing to share advice/opinions. Thanks in advance.

Regards, Conrad

Enjoy your new kit!

Rick